Cage fighters come to Preston

The first ever professional cage fighting event to be held at Preston Guild Hall will take place on Saturday.

The mixed martial art contest – ‘Rise of the Alpha’ – features a headline light-heavyweight title fight between James Hurrell, ranked 9th the UK and Ireland, and Przemyslaw Mysiala ranked 12th.

The company behind the event, which is sponsored by Bowker Harley-Davidson in Preston, is a new Lancashire-based professional cage fighting organisation called Animalistic.

It has assembled some of the UK’s best fighters on an 11-fight bill which also includes up-and-coming home-grown talent.

Animalistic founder Adam Botterill said: “This is going to be an incredible night of fighting and today can’t come around quickly enough for me. Four years ago I had to retire from the sport after just four fights.

“But I’m as passionate about MMA today as I ever have been. I want Animalistic to capitalise on the region’s enthusiasm for cage fighting; and combine with my knowledge and contacts to bring the sport to an even wider audience in the North West.

“So many people and organisations are already supporting what we’re trying to do. Former BAMMA World Lightweight Champion Rob ‘Cfour’ Sinclair, is acting as an ambassador for the event. And we’re especially grateful for the support of businesses like Bowker Harley-Davidson in Preston, Xtreme Camps and Preston Guild Hall.”

In addition to the fights, the evening will also include celebrity guests, a DJ and a live rap performance.

Peter Turner, for Bowker Harley-Davidson, said: “Adam is a local entrepreneur with an infectious passion for his sport.

“The way he has rallied local businesses and fighters to back this event is a credit to him. We hope the night will be a huge success and enjoy the support it deserves. And we’re proud to be supporting national and local sportsmen at the top of their game.”